Animals, 4-H barns popular at Marshfield Fair

Animals, especially those cared for and raised by kids, are one of the biggest annual draws of the Marshfield Fair.

Cody Shepard The Enterprise @cshepard_ENT

MARSHFIELD - While some fairs have turned into venues for rides, games and eating, the Marshfield Fair still puts big emphasis on agriculture.

“There is a little farm down the street from my house, but that’s different,” said Christine Fanning of Bridgewater, who was at the fair with her 9-year-old daughter, Molly. “This is probably one of the only real petting zoos left.”

The 4-H element of the fair revolves around animals raised by children 5 to 18 years old. At the fair, kids watch, feed and show goats, horses, beef and dairy cattle, rabbits, sheep and other animals.

“It’s a great experience to be with the animals and see how they do outside their natural habitat,” said Sarah, who is in her second year in 4-H. “You have to really work with them so they trust you. They have to know who you are, because you have to guide them with cues. You become very close with them.”

“It’s my favorite part of the fair,” said Maggie, who is in her first year with 4-H. “Working with the animals is just really fun.”

The fair includes a 4-H and Agricultural Awareness Day; this year’s was held Wednesday. All kids wearing Plymouth County 4-H T-shirts were admitted free.

There are also flower shows, pumpkin contests. and an egg show.

Some of the parents who were visiting the 4-H barns with their children on Thursday liked seeing the animals at the fair back when they were growing up.

“That was always a big part of the fair,” Bob Nelson of Boston said. “When the 4-H puts on the shows, they’re pretty outstanding. It gives the kids a unique, up-close perspective.”

Jen MacDonald and her son Alex, 12, of Kingston were at the fair Tuesday night to play games and take part in other fair activities. They made a special trip Thursday just to see the animals.

“I just think they’re funny and they’re nice,” said Alex, who said the animals are his favorite part of the fair.

Adam Oliveira of Bridgewater brought his niece Isabella, 7.

“It’s a friendly environment; nothing’s going to bite her,” Oliveira said. “It’s not like she has another opportunity to see these types of animals.”

“I like how they’re friendly and you can pet them,” Isabella said. “They’re fluffy.”

Jen Merlan of Pembroke said the animals are especially good for the younger children. Her older kids, Ella, 11, and Luke, 10, are more interested in the games and rides, but Thomas, 2, likes the animals.

“We always come to see the animals,” Merlan said. “We both love the animals, especially the little one. He loves to come see and pet the animals. It’s just part of the fair. For me and Thomas, it’s the best part.”